Youthline Appoints Young Manager
21 year old Nao Guy began working at Youthline earlier this year as the receptionist and was encouraged to apply for the Information Services Manger position when the previous manager moved overseas.
Nao is responsible for the management of the youth information website Urge, promotional material, the annual youth art competition and Youthline’s involvement in providing the Family Violence Information Line in partnership with other community groups and the Ministry of Social Development.
Nao says she was anxious about the responsibility at first but has been supported through mentoring to take on the role.
“I never expected that I would get such a position of responsibility so young and I am lucky to be part of an organisation that values young people and what they can contribute,” she says.
A large portion of Youthline’s paid staff and volunteer membership are youth under 25.
“Youth development is not just about working for young people but involving them in every part of the organisation, from planning to the day to day running of our services,” says Youthline CEO Stephen Bell.
Youthline are the recipient charity for this year’s Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park. Funds raised from the event will be used to help more young people like Nao reach their potential through leadership programmes and to help those at risk through youth work services and mentoring.